The Secret Secrets Of Hobs
The Secret Secrets Of Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential part of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass which is heatproof and shatterproof. They also feature flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they require electricity. Induction hobs can be used with almost any kind of cookware. However, they need compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "hol" which means pit, hole, or dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which translates to a crag, hill or a crag.
In folklore, hobs are faery spirits that do domestic chores. They are generally kind but they can be a nuisance if they are upset. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It could cure whooping-cough.
Another common usage of the term is to refer to a type of cooking equipment. A hob is a metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of a hob is usually flat and has a variety of cooking elements, including rings. In some cases the hob could be replaced by a flat stone to allow it to serve as a target for quoits.
The first documented uses of the word hob date to the 16th century. It was likely used at the same time as the feminine form, hobgoblin. This originates from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their benign nature, hobs are known to play games with people. They can be destructive if provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example, was able bring a cart up its roof. This caused a huge problem for the farmer. They can also be difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly found in the UK however, they can be found in other countries too. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled by one button and can be paired with other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth which makes them easier to use. These types of features are attracting consumers to purchase these devices. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features like the lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their speedy heating and energy efficiency as well as their precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surface stays cool to the touch and only gets hot when it comes into contact with cookware that is compatible. This minimizes the risk of burning. The power is also deactivated immediately when cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in the home where guests and children might be in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also use less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps lower household energy bills and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a "Stop and Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking areas to their lowest setting when you need to leave the kitchen. Some models also have bridge functions that connects two cooking zones induction into a single large zone managed by a single control for greater flexibility. The possibility of connecting multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook with larger or odd-sized pots and pans.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted with ovens uk simple, intuitive controls that are simple to operate and read. A lot of hobs have timers, presets for common cooking tasks, automatic shut-offs, a Booster function which only uses the maximum power for the required time, and a gentle "bottom heat" to cut down on simmer time and conserve energy.
Additionally, the smooth glass-ceramic surface of an electronic hob is easy to clean and does not have the nooks and crevices of gas burners that are conventional, which are prone to collecting dirt and grime over time. Fotile electric hobs have been designed to add sophistication and style to the modern kitchen. They have sleek, modern lines that complement other appliances and décor.
Hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions use sensors that monitor the hob surface for signs of abnormal temperature or explosive substances, and then automatically shutting off the gas supply to prevent injuries and fires. This feature is especially important for gas hobs because it reduces the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs utilize sensors to know when cookware isn't touching it. This can protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs available. It is important to select the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some of the features include: heat control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of stove you select will also affect the cost of your kitchen in both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame with natural gas. They heat pans and pots. Many home cooks choose them because they provide instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. Additionally, they are unaffected by power interruptions and work with many cooking appliances. However gas hobs can be more expensive to run and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more prone than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the flame that is open and ensure that your stove is protected by grills with safety.
Plate hobs are yet another traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements beneath a ceramic or glass surface to heat your cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based products. They are more difficult to cool and heat up than other hobs and can be difficult for cleaning.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, however they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more energy efficient however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some feature touchscreen controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs use electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient than other kinds of hobs, resulting in faster heating and more even heat distribution. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners that are exposed, making them easier to clean. They're not as effective at simmering, and they might not be suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs are an essential part of any kitchen, but they can be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning can cause fires that can damage your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be an important cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which can present a fire hazard. Fortunately, the majority of hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is consistent and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components and the surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs, the technology is considered safe to use. These EMF are not as powerful as those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they generate is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types of cookware, so it's important to ensure that your pots and pans are ready for induction prior to making use of them. Placing a magnet near the base of the pan is a straightforward method to test. If the pan is able to stick to the magnet, it's compatible with an induction hob. Using the wrong type of cookware could result in the hob becoming damaged and causing an explosion.
Keep children and other people away from the cooking area when it is in use. The surface may be extremely hot. It is also recommended to use oven gloves when touching handles on the metal pan, as they can be extremely hot. It is important to shut off the stove immediately after use, since it could remain hot for some time. If you experience a fire and you are in danger, follow the fire services instructions - call 999 and leave the premises as soon as you can.